Menu
Expat.com
Search
Magazine
Search

Get a Bank Account in London

Mariano_
#1
Hey guys,
Today I tried to open a new bank account in Lloyds, I arrived in London 3 weeks ago and I don't have a job in the UK yet (actually I work for an american company by internet) I have Spanish passport but the point is I was born in Argentina. For that reason they asked me to another proof of identity (like EU driving licence or some service bill) . There any bank to open an account without these kind of requirements?

Thanks!
Mariano
See also
riazcdki
#2
The banks became very strict since 9/11 and then a few years later a similar incidence in England.

There is a loop hole which you could try. You could apply for a JOINT account with you and a friend or a family member whom you trust and who fulfills the ID requirements. Then you could legally operate the transactions, ATM and cheque book etc.

You need to be very careful while operating an account in the UK, since the authorities keep  very close eye on the frequency and the amounts transferred from your AC.

The London expat guide

Updated in 2025, comprehensive and free

Read it now
London
S
#3
I had a similar problem in 2012. I managed to have an account at Lloyds with my passport and a simple letter from my landlord: something like "to whom it may concern, Stephane is living at ....".

Stephane
Omar Maneh
#4
[Moderated: english please]
james mack
#5
Go to the Library open an account its free let them send you mail that Counts as one proof of address this and Your Passport should be fine to open an account. If not apply for a national Insurance card and take the letter from that too as well as Passport. A phone bill, driver's license, or any other official document with your name and address will do. this should take around a week max ;)

My Girlfriend had an account in England was registered at the doctor With national ID letter and Library card within 2 weeks but she is from the EU.

HSBC Passport account would be Your fastest option the link is below
http://moneyfacts.co.uk/guides/banking/ … f-address/

Banks in England are what destroyed thee economy a few years back they love to let anyone open an account and live in debt it makes them Money :)
james mack
#6

riazcdki wrote:

The banks became very strict since 9/11 and then a few years later a similar incidence in England.

There is a loop hole which you could try. You could apply for a JOINT account with you and a friend or a family member whom you trust and who fulfills the ID requirements. Then you could legally operate the transactions, ATM and cheque book etc.

You need to be very careful while operating an account in the UK, since the authorities keep  very close eye on the frequency and the amounts transferred from your AC.


Not trying to be rude but opening a joint account still requires ID and a proof of address from both People opening the account.
Also maybe an interesting read for you below on the laws permitting Access to view somones account and transactions (including government bodies)

http://www.finweb.com/banking-credit/wh … z38Od2xmfO

CelesteNL
#7
Hi

Try again because LLoyds is quite friendly and does not require such a bills ... I opened an account and had my Dutch passport when I am Peruvian born. So I handed my actual Dutch passport and a letter of the landlord saying I live there signed and address in. That was all.

Try again and again at another branch .. behave formal and dress formally, most of all to such a formal transaction as opening a Bank account where trust is involved. Formality will take you a long way here.

Best,

Celeste
M
#8
Did you try Barclays??

Essential services for your expat journey

Choose the best health insurance
Choose the best health insurance
Protect your health and get easy access to treatment for expats in London.
Plan your international move
Plan your international move
Facilitate your move to London by getting a quote from our top rated movers.
Open a bank account that suits you
Open a bank account that suits you
Discover the best international banks to manage your money securely.
Send money overseas at the best rate
Send money overseas at the best rate
For fast, safe and secure money transfers to and from London.
Other discussions on banking in London
Ask your questionOther discussions about banks and finance in London

Further reading

Accommodation in London
With a surface area of 1,572km² and thirty districts to choose from, London has thousands of homes available ...
Top things to do in London
No matter what your definition of fun is – get ready to feel active, inspired, and creative in London. ...
Work in London
London's job market is one of the most competitive and diverse in the world, attracting talent from across England ...
Study in London
Studying in London is probably the best decision you will make for your professional and personal development. For ...
Networking in London
Building a social and professional network as an expat in London is vital to achieving the perfect work-life ...
Living in London
So, you're considering London? Or perhaps you've already made the leap and you're now wondering what ...
Cost of living in London
London forms part of the top ten most expensive cities to live in for expats. However, the cost of living varies ...
Buy a property in London
Becoming a homeowner or investing in a buy-to-let property may have crossed your mind as you consider moving to ...